It’s sensible to close courts says MSP

Nov 27 2009 by Edwin Lawrence, Ayrshire Post (main ed)

SCOTTISH Government minister Adam Ingram MSP says it’s ‘sensible’ to close district courts at Cumnock and Girvan.

But the chairman of Girvan Community Council says it’s another ‘blatant degeneration’ of rural communities.

Mr Ingram claims figures show relatively few witnesses are being summoned to Girvan and Cumnock.

And he says the closure of courts in the two towns will free up more police officers.

Mr Ingram’s reasoning is that officers won’t have to be on duty at courts ‘dealing with low levels of business’.

But Girvan Community Council chairman Alec Clark disagrees.

He points out: “Police will now have to take a prisoner arrested in Girvan up to Ayr.

“What’s the extra cost in time and money there?”

Mr Clark adds: “Solicitors who specialise in criminal cases may also find it more convenient to be based in Ayr.

“I’m afraid it’s another sign that’s those in power have not regard to the plight of rural communities.”

Labour MSP and former Justice Minister Cathy Jamieson agrees with Mr Clark.

She says JPs presented a strong case for the retention of district courts at Girvan and Cumnock.

Ms Jamieson adds: “It is about access to justice and ensuring local communities see justice being done.”

But Mr Ingram claims: “People attending courts need to be in a safe and secure setting.

“And in the cases of Cumnock and Girvan it would not be possible to do much more than make-do with sub-standard provision.”

Mr Ingram says value for money is also ‘a desirable end’ while not being ‘the overriding factor’.

He points out: “Account has to be taken of the relative efficiency of operating a building that sits two to three days a month.”